THE LONG ROAD - SimplyScripts
THE LONG ROAD
Screenplay by
Carl Wilkinson
FADE IN
INT. CHURCH. DAY
MATTHEW, mid 20'S, tall, handsome, sitting at one of the pews in deep conversation with an OLD MAN, late 70'S, bald, chubby.
MATTHEW
When my family was ripped from me so suddenly the world became a much smaller place with much bigger problems. All I want to know is why them and not me.
OLD MAN
(scratching his bald head)
It's a question only the man at the top of the stairs can answer.
6 MONTHS EARLIER
EXT. LAKE. DAY
The red hue covers the sky as the sunsets. The lake surrounding the cabin is clear and peaceful.
The stillness disturbed by the humming birds in a nearby tree. Matthew and CATHERINE, mid 20'S, tall, slim, gorgeous, are standing under the tree gazing intimately into each other's eyes.
MATTHEW
Remember when we first met.
Caressing her hand.
CATHERINE
Like it was yesterday.
Matthew takes a deep breath.
Nervously reaches for the ring and drops to one knee.
Marry me! I fell head over heels when we met and I'm still falling to this day.
CATHERINE
(hugs him)
Nothing would make me happier.
He places the ring on her finger.
6 MONTHS LATER
EXT. CHURCH. DAY
It's a fresh spring day. The trees and flowers are in full bloom. A beautiful sea of blue crashes through the clouds.
A SERIES OF ANGLES
of cars arriving and FATHER JOHNSON, early 50'S, short, stocky, greets the guests, as they make their way into the church. Matthew arrives a few minutes later looking excited and in good spirits. The church bell rings to signify the procession of the wedding.
INT. CHURCH. DAY
The church is crowded with family and friends. Some late arrivals scurry to their seats. The excitement travels through out the church.
THE GROOM
(dressed with suavity in his suit waits
anxiously for the proceedings to begin)
THE BRIDE
(glowing in her wedding dress makes her way down the aisle)
THE ORGANIST
plays the traditional "Wedding Song". Everyone rises.
FATHER JOHNSON
Matthew and Catherine have decided to recite their own vows.
MATTHEW
(placing Catherine's trembling hand in his)
When I'm with you nothing else matters all I want to do is make you happy.
I promise to support you in all your hopes and dreams. Be with you through the good and bad times. I want to grow old with you and change with you. There's a saying love is blind but if you want to see the strength of my love all you have to do is look in my eyes.
I love you.
Tears run down her face.
CATHERINE
You are my heart when its broken, my hopes and dreams when its fading, my smile when I'm down. From this moment I am yours and you are mine. I will love you till the day I die.
FATHER JOHNSON
By the power invested in me I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.
THE BRIDE AND GROOM
seals the service with a kiss.
Everyone applauds.
EXT. CHURCH. DAY
The guests shower the couple with confetti as they leave the church. A carriage awaits to escort the couple to the reception.
EXT. GARDEN. NIGHT
The green garden on top of the hillside is overlooking a cascade of falling water, the garden decorated with a display of roses, hanging baskets filled with chocolates and a water feature scented with lavender.
INT. MARQUEE. NIGHT
Roars of laughter and live music fill the tent. An ice-feature of the couple is situated at the entrance of the marquee. HARRY, early 20'S, heavy-set, the best man gets up to make a speech.
HARRY
(tapping his glass to
get their attention)
I'm not one for speeches so I'll keep it short.
He takes a list out of his pocket and it drops all the way to the floor.
The guests laugh.
I'm just kidding. I feel the love you both share for one another so I ask you to remember this love during your trying times. I toast the health of the bride and groom. May you live long and happy lives and I'll see you back here again in fifty years when I make another speech.
Everyone clinks their glasses and shouts cheers!
Harry hugs the couple.
THE LIVE BAND
plays the couple's favourite song. Everyone applauds as the couple graces the floor for their first dance.
CATHERINE
(whispering in his ear)
Your vows were beautiful.
MATTHEW
I was only saying what I felt.
(A beat)
Did I tell you how beautiful you look tonight.
Kissing her hand.
CATHERINE
I don't mind hearing it again.
(A beat)
I have some good news for you.
MATTHEW
What can possible be better than this very day?
CATHERINE
How about another member to the family.
MATTHEW
(shouts)
We going to have a baby.
The guests join the couple on the dancefloor to congratulate them.
INT/EXT. CAR NIGHT. MOVING
The road's deserted. Silence. Then we hear the screeching of a car swerving around the corner at quick pace, missing a few trees. The smoke of the tyres still linger behind.
The couple's in a jovial mood. Matthew can't take his eyes off his wife.
MATTHEW
I can't believe we having a baby. You're going to be a great mother.
CATHERINE
We're going to be great parents.
MATTHEW
I already have a name for our son.
CATHERINE
Who said its a boy.
MATTHEW
I have a feeling.
CATHERINE
Sorry to burst your manhood but it's a girl.
MATTHEW
(Matthew grinning from ear to ear)
Really! I love you so much.
Leans over to kiss his wife.
CATHERINE
Look out Matthew!
EXT. ROAD. NIGHT
The debris of the cars' scattered all over the now buzzing road. The night sky being poisoned with the smoke of the fire. The observers stop to see what happened and a crowd soon gathers.
A SERIES OF ANGLES
THE POLICEMEN
cordon off the area.
THE FIREMEN
extinguish the fire so they can remove the couple from the hazardous conditions.
Matthew and Catherine lying lifeless in the car.
The FIREMEN working hard to remove a metal piece from Matthew's leg.
THE PARAMEDICS
working tirelessly to save the couple. We see them inserting a drip as they transport Matthew and Catherine to the ambulance. A paramedic continuing to give Catherine CPR.
EXT. ROAD. NIGHT
The ambulance races through the busy streets as it makes its way to the hospital. Cars giving way as they hear the wailing sirens and see the flashing lights.
EXT. HOSPITAL. NIGHT
THE AMBULANCE
arrives at the hospital. The doctors are waiting to take Matthew and Catherine into surgery.
INT. HOSPITAL. NIGHT
The paramedics and doctors rush the couple to the operating theatre.
PARAMEDIC 1
(we see Matthew being
rushed through the door first)
And we removed a piece of metal from his leg, he might have ruptured a artery. His been in and out of conscious since we removed him from the car.
PARAMEDIC 2
(we see Catherine being
rushed through the door)
Her heart rate's been dropping since we entered the ambulance. She might have internal bleeding.
INT. OPERATING THEATRE. NIGHT
We see DR.HUNT, early 40'S, thin, wrinkled, covering a body.
DR.HUNT
Time of death 11:10pm.
The operating staff look despondent.
INT. HOSPITAL WAITING AREA. NIGHT
Family and friends wait anxiously for the doctor to bring them some news. Patients and Doctors are walking up and down the halls. SUSAN, late 50'S, short, pretty, and HELEN, late 40's, tall, plain, rush to the doctor's as they approach them.
DOCTOR PHILLIPS
(early 30'S, broad, average,)
Your son suffered a broken leg, cracked ribs and pelvis and their was some internal bleeding.
Susan's son comforts her.
We managed to stop the bleeding and he's in a stable condition, the next few days are going to be vital.
HELEN
What about my daughter doctor?
DOCTOR HUNT
(dropping his head)
We tried everything but their was just to much bleeding.
(A beat)
I'm sorry she didn't make it.
Helen faints and is comforted by her family.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM. DAY
The room's cold and dark. Matthew's in bad shape, tubes are inserted in his wounded body. We see a man, grey with sadness looking through the window at Matthew.
INT. CREMATORIUM. DAY
Family and friends cluster into the crematorium. Photos of Catherine are placed above the coffin in honour of her memory.
FATHER JOHNSON
Its a sad day today. We say goodbye to our very own angel who has been called back to stand beside her "father". We can't begin to imagine how the world works. Why some live and others die. Our only comfort is knowing that God has a plan for each and everyone of us.
reading from the Bible
JESUS said I am the resurrection and the life.
He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.
And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.
Do you believe this.
Helen bursts into tears and is comforted by Susan.
He says in Matthew chapter five verse four Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Amen.
Is their anyone who would like to say a few words.
Susan gets up.
SUSAN
(wiping the tears from her eyes)
Since my son can't be here today I feel its my honour as a mother to say a few words on his behalf.
I didn't know Catherine very well, all know is when Matthew spoke of her his face would light up. I remember the day he told us he was getting married, I've never seen him so happy.
Turning to the photos of Catherine.
I can without a doubt in my mind say that she was the love of his life and it's truly a sin what happened. Its going to break my son's heart. Catherine...
Susan succumbs to her emotions.
Catherine's brother KEVIN, late teens, short, pimple faced, says a few words.
KEVIN
A woman like Catherine can't be easily erased from our minds. When she spoke her voice transcended oceans. She was a person who embodied love and in return was loved by many. We going to miss you CAT.
Places a picture of their father in the coffin.
Mourners get up to pay their respects to Catherine before she's cremated.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM. NIGHT
Susan's sleeping on a chair next to Matthew's bed. Matthew's hand twitches then he slowly wakes up.
MATTHEW
(his voice groggy)
Mom!
SUSAN
Oh Honey! We were really worried about you.
Kissing him all over his face.
MATTHEW
What happened?
Delirious.
SUSAN
You were in a car accident. Don't you remember.
MATTHEW
Its a massive blur.
Sits up straight as if he forgot to put the iron off.
Catherine
(A beat)
and the baby.
SUSAN
(walks over to the window and stares out)
We'll talk tomorrow you need your rest. You're still very weak.
MATTHEW
(knocking over a cup filled with water)
Mom! What's going on, I want to see my family.
SUSAN
(sits next to him on the bed)
Honey.
(A beat)
The doctor tried everything...
MATTHEW
No! This can't be happening.
Trying to rip the I.V'S out.
Susan hugs him tightly.
SUSAN
(tears falling from her face)
Their was to much bleeding, they tried everything.
MATTHEW
(crying)
How could he do this, why didn't he take me.
SUSAN
I wish I could take your pain away.
MATTHEW
(drops his head in his hands)
Why her she was the sweetest woman I've ever met.
MATTHEW
I need to see her, where is she?
SUSAN
(A beat)
She's already been cremated.
MATTHEW
What!
Slamming his fist's on the bed. Nurses rush in to sedate him.
They had no right, she was my wife, my responsibility.
EXT. HOSPITAL. DAY
Matthew's leaving the hospital.
INT. CAR. DAY
Matthew's sitting in silence staring out the window. The sadness visible in his eyes. His leg and lower back in plaster from the accident.
SUSAN
I'm glad you okay.
Matthew looks at her, then stares back out the window.
I've got an idea.
Why don't you come stay with us, your brother would love to see you.
MATTHEW
(punches the dashboard)
I want to go home and can we stop with the small talk, its giving me a headache.
A tear falls from Susan's face.
EXT. HOUSE. DAY
The car pulls into the driveway of a thirties style double storey house with white picket fences. The house where Matthew and Catherine were going to raise their family.
INT. CAR. DAY
MATTHEW
Sorry for biting your head off.
SUSAN
Its okay honey.
Gives him a kiss.
INT. HOUSE. NIGHT
A few unpacked boxes that reads "Catherine's things", are strewn around the living room and photos of Matthew and Catherine placed above the fireplace.
Matthew slumped in a chair by the fireplace drunk on a bottle of whiskey, watching their wedding video. We see scenes of the couple cutting the cake and having their first dance.
INT. HOUSE. DAY
The house looks worse than a dog's kennel, empty whiskey bottles are all over the place. Matthew sitting blankly in front of the television. Every few seconds he lifts his hand to take another gulp of whiskey.
Knock on door
MATTHEW opens it.
HARRY
Hey man.
(hugs him)
I'm so sorry, if there's anything I can do.
Opening the blinds to allow some sunlight in and clearing some of the mess.
MATTHEW
(takes a gulp of whiskey)
Why do people always say that? I mean nothing anyone does can bring them back.
Avoiding eye contact with Harry.
HARRY
I'm not the bad guy here, I'm here to help.
MATTHEW
(we see a prescription of
Vicodin next to the bottle of whiskey)
Why cant't everyone just leave me the fuck alone and let me grieve in peace.
taking another shot of whiskey.
HARRY
Do you think its a good idea to be mixing the two?
Referring to the medication.
MATTHEW
Its my only refuge from the nightmares.
HARRY
(hands him a box)
Its Catherine's ashes.
Matthew goes blank.
You need to pull yourself together, Catherine wouldn't like this. Matthew you listening to me.
MATTHEW
(snaps out of it)
Yeah I heard you.
HARRY
I've got to get to work, I'll call you later.
MATTHEW
Do whatever yo want.
INT. HOUSE. NIGHT
Matthew's staring at the ashes. Tears running down his face. He pops two pills and washes it down with a shot of whiskey.
MATTHEW (V.O.)
I feel tired and weak, my head's in turmoil almost as though I've been engaged in a battle with my conscience and the odds are against me coming out on top.
MATTHEW
(on phone)
Hey mom its me.
INT. MOM'S HOUSE. NIGHT
Susan's in the kitchen baking.
SUSAN
Hi honey. How you holding up?
INT. MATTHEW'S HOUSE. NIGHT
MATTHEW
I feel like the life's been sucked out of me. I need to borrow the cabin for a few days.
INT. MOM'S HOUSE. NIGHT
SUSAN
(Susan putting some biscuits in the oven)
That's a good idea we all should go.
INT. MATTHEW'S HOUSE. NIGHT
MATTHEW
(walking up and down the room)
No! Mom there's some things I need to take care before my whole world spins out of control.
INT. MOM'S HOUSE. NIGHT
SUSAN
(getting some vegetables out of the refrigerator)
Okay honey but you don't have to deal with this alone.
INT. MATTHEW HOUSE. NIGHT
MATTHEW
(drinking a shot of whiskey)
I know and when I'm ready I'll ask for help.
INT. MOM'S HOUSE. DAY
SUSAN
(finish making the salad)
Remember we love you and we here for you.
INT. MATTHEW'S HOUSE. DAY
MATTHEW
Love you too mom, I'll see you in a few days.
INT. MATTHEW'S BEDROOM. NIGHT
We see him packing some clothes and a gun in his suitcase. Looks at some newspaper clippings of the accident and tosses it in the suitcase.
EXT. ROAD. DAY
A herd cattle walking on the side of the dusty roads scatter as a car speeds by. The road is bumpy however the different shades of brown going up the mountain and the greens of the hills below more than makes up for the drive.
INT. CAR-DAY. MOVING
Matthew's tired and strained body tells a story of a broken man. We see the urn next to him.
BROKEN DOWN CHURCH
Pulls in and parks. The windows are broken. The doors are hanging on its last hinges and the wooden frame of the church creaks everytime the wiind blows.
EXT. CHURCH. DAY
Matthew's sitting on his bonnet staring at the dilapidated church, situated in the middle of nowhere. There's a plaque hanging on the church door that reads:Divine Christ, Your Living Presence within my spirit abolishes all my unbelief.
FLASHBACK Begins
INT. CATHOLIC SCHOOL. DAY
The hallway's are filled with student's rushing to their next class. We see Matthew talking to a priest.
A bitchy girl knocks Catherine's books out of her hands and Matthew goes over to help her.
MATTHEW
Amazing what some people find funny hey. I'm Matthew.
CATHERINE
(she is timid and shy)
I have to get to class.
She rushes away and Matthew run's after her.
MATTHEW
First of all I'm still studying and secondly what's your name?
CATHERINE
Catherine!
MATTHEW
Let's go out Friday.
CATHERINE
Are you allowed to go on dates.
MATTHEW
No! But I'm not going to pass up an opportunity like this.
CATHERINE
Okay, that will be great.
INT. PARENTS HOUSE. NIGHT
The house has a cosy, warm feeling to it. Susan's busy baking and his father PHILLIP'S, late 50'S, big, bulky man, reading the newspaper.
Matthew storms into the house.
PHILLIP
Hey slow down. What's the rush?
MATTHEW
Where's mom, I got some good news.
(calls)
Mom!
SUSAN
Yes honey, I'm right here no need to shout.
PHILLIP
His got some good news.
MATTHEW
I'm getting married.
PHILLIP and SUSAN
What!
MATTHEW
I met this great girl a few months ago and we decided to get married.
PHILLIP
What about your studies?
MATTHEW
I guess God has other plans for me, aren't you happy for me.
Susan hugs him.
SUSAN
Of course we are.
Phillip jumps up. Paces quickly up and down the room.
PHILLIP
This is crazy, tommorow you'll go back to your studies and forget about this nonsense.
Phillip makes his way out of the room.
Muttering something under his breath.
MATTHEW
Its not nonsense, I love her.
Phillip turns around. His face reflecting his mounting anger.
PHILLIP
(raising his voice)
What do you know about love? You still a child.
MATTHEW
All I know is I love her and know one's changing my mind, not even you.
PHILLIP
In that case Mr big shot, you know where the door is and don't let your stupidity knock you on the way out.
SUSAN
Everyone calm down.
MATTHEW
No! Im sick of this his always putting me down and I have to take it not anymore.
Storms out of the house and passes his brother ALEX, late teens, muscular, good-looking.
ALEX
What's up man?
MATTHEW
I'm done with him.
FLASHBACK Ends
PRESENT DAY
INT. CHURCH. NIGHT
There's 3 pews on each side of the church. Looks like it's been mauled by termites and a large cross hanging on the wall. There's an old man in the church praying.
MATTHEW
(the sun shining directly on the cross,
through the broken roof)
Matthew praying.
EXT. ROAD-NIGHT. MOVING
The car smoking from the long drive.
BAR\RESTAURANT
Pulls in and parks. The place look's like its been there forever. The windows are dirty and there's holes in the walls.
INT.BAR. RESTAURANT. NIGHT
The inside is in surprisingly good condition there's a few pooltables and a jukebox. He has a seat at the bar.
BARMAN
(late 60'S, stocky)
What's your poison?
MATTHEW
Shot of whiskey.
Hands him some money.
BARMAN
On the house, I'm ED owner of this lavish establishment. You passing through.
Extends his hand.
MATTHEW
Matthew! Yeah I'm taking a few day's off.
Knocking back the shot.
How long you running this place?
ED
A few years now bought it after my wife died of cancer. She was a strong woman fought until the very end, I was a wreck never thought I'd get over it, but slowly the pain subsides, you must be willing to let it go.
Enough of my sad life. Another round.
MATTHEW
Sure! I'm sorry about your wife.
Matthew stumbles out of the bar a few hours later.
INT. CAR-NIGHT. MOVING
Matthew fiddling with the radio, so he doesn't see the guy in the road and swerves out of the way just in time.
EXT. ROAD. NIGHT
The road is pitch black and the car's idling in a ditch against a pole on the side of the road. The street lights are flickering.
The sound of wild animals echoes through the deserted road.
MATTHEW
(walking over to the guy, rubbing his fists)
Do you have a death wish? What idiot sit's in the middle of the road?
The guy has a few bruises but his mainly shaken up.
Jesus Christ,
Rushing over to the guy.
Are you all right?
Helps him into the car.
INT/EXT. CAR. NIGHT. MOVING
There's silence for a few seconds as the guy pulls himself together. Matthew hands him a handkerchief.
SAMUEL
(early 60'S, tall, grey hair)
Thanks for helping me back there, not many good samaritans around anymore, my friends call me SAMUEL.
Wiping the blood from his face.
MATTHEW
No problem, I'm Matthew what the hell happened.
SAMUEL
Four misguided souls tried to rob me.
MATTHEW
Do you need a doctor?
SAMUEL
I'll be fine it just breaks my heart to see people so lost and angry. You know I've been all around the globe spreading the lords word and this is the first time I've experienced anything like this.
Rubs his bruised ribs.
MATTHEW
Putting your trust in God can only get you so far, you know if he was so great he could of stopped what happened to you tonight. What's a priest doing in the middle of nowhere.
SAMUEL
I'm actually a missionary.
Maybe he wanted to bring us together.
MATTHEW
Do you honestly believe that bullshit.
EXT. ROAD. NIGHT. MOVING
Turns into a rundown gas station and bar.
GAS STATION\BAR
The car pulls in and parks. We hear music coming from the bar.
INT. CAR. NIGHT
There's uncomfortable silence in the car.
SAMUEL
Did I offend you in someway.
MATTHEW
No I have a lot on my plate at the moment.
SAMUEL
Let me buy you a drink to say thanks, maybe even empty some of the stuff on your plate.
MATTHEW
Okay!
INT. BAR. NIGHT
The bar's designed as a saloon in one of those old cowboy movies. A live-band's playing country music.
The guys find a seat and a waitress in a short skirt comes over to help them.
WAITRESS
What can I get you boys.
SAMUEL
Jack on the rocks.
MATTHEW
A shot of whiskey and keep them coming.
Waitress brings their drinks and flirts with Matthew.
SAMUEL
So where you headed.
MATTHEW
To my family's cabin, I need to clear my head.
SAMUEL
I hope I'm not being to forward is their something bothering you.
Matthew shuffles in his seat and takes a shot of whiskey.
MATTHEW
Besides your God abandoning me in my darkest hour, not really.
SAMUEL
I'm sorry you lost me.
MATTHEW
If he didn't withdraw himself from me and my... forget it, its not like you can help.
SAMUEL
Try me I've been told I'm a good listener.
Staring at the flickering EXIT sign.
MATTHEW
I was in a car accident on my wedding night and my wife and unborn child were killed.
SAMUEL
I'm really sorry Matthew.
MATTHEW
Don't be sorry you didn't know her. I don't know why I'm telling you this. I haven't spoken to anyone about the accident till now.
SAMUEL
Sometimes we find it easier to talk to complete strangers.
They get up to play pool.
MATTHEW
I guess you right. I've got a question if your God is so almighty how can he sit back and allow all these terrible things to happen.
SAMUEL
I don't pretend to understand how God works all I know is, his directing you to a greater.
Places a ball neatly at the pocket.
MATTHEW
What does that even mean? You gave up your life to be with God you should have the answers.
What proof do you have that he actually exists?
Matthew shooting all over the place except in the pocket. Breathing in deeply everytime Samuel speaks.
SAMUEL
You going to have time for deep reflection and many agonizing choices if you willing to see you'll find the answers.
Snapping the pool cue in half over the table. Samuel takes a few steps back.
MATTHEW
I'm sorry but when I think of that drunk driver and what he did I find it hard to make sense of anything, either he doesn't exist or his plain merciless. You choose which one you want to follow.
SAMUEL
You're free to your opinion. Now I have a question for you if God doesn't exist as you so bluntly put it why are you so angry with him.
A bunch of guys enter the bar causing a commotion.
SAMUEL
(Samuel hiding his face)
That's the guys from ealier.
The rowdy guys find a seat and one of them points to Samuel.
They walk over to the pooltable.
ROWDY GUY
(early 30'S, heavy-set, ugly)
Looky here boys its our old friend the priest and his girlfriend.
Rowdy guys laugh.
MATTHEW
You're a real funny guy, you should take your act on the road and don't forget your three stooges.
Matthew confronts the guy with the broken pool cue.
ROWDY GUY
Who the hell are you his guardian angel.
MATTHEW
What if I was?
Tapping the broken pool cue on his hand.
SAMUEL
Lets leave MATTHEW they not worth it.
Matthew and Samuel are about to leave when the guy sucker punches Samuel.
The crowd in the bar gathers around to see what's happening.
Matthew raises his fists and start's beating the guy. Samuel and the barman pull him off the guy and are chucked out of the bar.
EXT. BAR. NIGHT
Matthew walking up and down kicking over everything in site. The road's desolate and all we hear is Matthew's heavy intense breathing.
MATTHEW
Get in the car I can't leave you here with this assholes, I'll drop you somewhere else.
They get in the car and he speeds off.
INT. CAR. NIGHT
The mood has changed drastically. Matthew clutching his swollen, bloody hand.
SAMUEL
What was that all about back there?
MATTHEW
You were there, we witnessed exactly the same thing.
SAMUEL
That was not the person I met earlier on. I know your wife was killed but...
Pulls the car to the side of the road and gets out.
EXT. ROAD. NIGHT
Grabs Samuel by the throat and shoves him against the car.
SAMUEL
So what, now you going to beat me.
MATTHEW
Don't talk to me about my wife, you didn't know her.
Letting him go.
SAMUEL
I understand you upset and you have every right to be, but you can't go around beating people up because you angry at the world.
Matthew staring at him like a bull that sees red.
MATTHEW
Do you really understand, I didn't know you lost a wife and baby.
SAMUEL
I know that you hurting, but I'm your friend, I'm one of the good guys, I only want to help.
MATTHEW
He deserved everything he got.
SAMUEL
He did, do you really want to sink to his level because we can go back.
Slides down against the car. Tears flowing free and fast.
MATTHEW
I'm lost without her, I feel like I'm sinking to the bottom of the ocean, she was my heart and soul. Somedays its so bad I feel like ending it once and for all. I miss her so much it hurts.
SAMUEL
You only need to remember one thing.
MATTHEW
What's that.
SAMUEL
(touching Matthew's
heart)
That's she's always with you.
EXT. ROAD. DAY. FURTHER
The car pulls to the side of the road and Samuel gets out and waves good by.
INT. CAR. ROAD
Matthew sitting quitely in the car, radio playing, his face bespeaks sadness and anger. His car overheats. Gets out to fix it.
EXT. ROAD. DAY
The breeze not helping in this sweltering conditions. Opens the bonnet and burns his hand.
MATTHEW
(kick's the car)
Looking up at the sky.
Just fucking great. Why don't you take me now. My life's over anyway, that's what you wanted right.
BEN
I wouldn't test him.
There's an old man BEN, early 70'S, short, chubby, with a guitar sitting on the side of the road.
MATTHEW
Is that so, I don't really give a shit what God thinks or you for that matter. So mind your own business.
BEN
No need to bite my head off son just making small talk.
Strolling over to Matthew.
There's a garage not far from here, someone might be able to help you there.
MATTHEW
Thanks!
Matthew starts pushing the car and Ben decides to help him.
MATTHEW
Sure, you not a priest I've had enough of God for one day.
BEN
I just play the guitar my friend.
EXT. GARAGE. DAY
Mechanic fixing the car.
MATTHEW
Thanks for your help back there. I don't even know your name.
BEN
Eveyone call's me Ben.
MECHANIC
All done. That's two-hundred rand.
Pays the Mechanic.
MATTHEW
Matthew, you need a lift.
BEN
I don't want to impose.
MATTHEW
Not at all, its the least I can do.
They get in the car and drive off.
INT. CAR. DAY. MOVING
Matthew's mood has lifted since Ben came along.
MATTHEW
So you in a band.
Referring to the guitar on the back seat.
BEN
Yeah we playing at some jazz festival in the next town.
MATTHEW
Where's the rest of the band.
BEN
(shakes cigarette
from pack)
Probably there already, I crashed at some birds house, the guys got tired of waiting, so they left me to find my own way there. I know what you thinking how does he do it at his age.
MATTHEW
No I was actually wondering what they going to think when you you rock up with me.
To guys laugh.
So how long you playing the guitar.
BEN
About.... 40 odd year.
MATTHEW
I play little too.
BEN
Oh yeah, its nice to have a fellow musician around.
MATTHEW
I'm far from that.
BEN
You know when I was in my early twenties I went over to the U.S.A. to study I had the priveledge of seeing one of JIMI HENDRIX'S concerts, could that man play an electric guitar, that wasn't even the best part I met the most beautiful woman who would later become my wife at the concert. She was arrogant, bossy just the way I like them. Bless her soul. Do you have someone that hogs all the blanket.
Matthew stares out the window.
Did I say something wrong.
MATTHEW
No I was thinking about something, that's all I do lately. The world can be a cruel and unfair place.
BEN
Don't I know it.
MATTHEW
So you a Hendrix's fan.
BEN
Isn't everybody you haven't heard the electric guitar until Jimmy's played it.
MATTHEW
I'm more of a CLAPTON fan.
BEN
A white man with soul.
EXT. CAR. NIGHT
We see a sign indicating a tent site a few kiliometres up the road.
MATTHEW
I've been on the road for a while, do you mind if we stay at the campsite tonight.
BEN
Cool with me. My body could use a rest.
TENT-SITE
They pull in and park.
EXT. TENT SITE. NIGHT
The tent has been pitched and the guy's are sitting round the fire chatting.
All this is under and overlapped by Ben playing the guitar softly.
BEN
So is there a wife and kid back home.
MATTHEW
They were killed a few weeks ago, I'm on my way to spread their ashes.
BEN
So many ideas of life float about saying goodbye to your family should never be one of them. My sympathy. What happened if you don't mind me asking.
Matthew takes a gulp of his drink.
MATTHEW
We were on our way home from our wedding; I just found out I was going to be a father.
FLASHBACK Begins
We see the two cars crashing into each other and spinning out of control.
The guy who caused the crash gets gingerly out of his car and limps away.
We see the couple laying lifeless in the car.
FLASHBACK Ends
Matthew adding more wood to the fire.
They said that if the guy had phoned the ambulance my wife and baby might have survived. Nothing makes sense why them and not me.
BEN
Know one ever gives us the full story.
MATTHEW
What do you mean?
Matthew pouring Ben and him another drink.
BEN
I mean when we were kids, our parents always use to say "study hard so you can get a good job and marry a lovely woman and have kids."
Their was one important detail they forgot to let us in on; life doesn't always work out the way we plan
and more often than not we have to deal with some kind of trauma.
Its heartbraking you had to experience such a loss so early on in your life.
MATTHEW
I don't know if I'll ever get over this, I'm scared I might forget her.
BEN
I'm no expert but take it one day at a time, that's all anyone can ask of you. You up for a song it might cheer you up.
Ben play's a song.
INT. CAR. DAY. MOVING
The guys are laughing and talking.
MATTHEW
Thanks for listening last night.
BEN
My pleasure, I can't remember the last time I just sat around and talked.
MATTHEW
It felt good to empty the well.
BEN
I was happy to listen and don't worry thing's will get better.
MATTHEW
I really hope so I don't know how much more my heart can take. Its getting harder to live everyday, its becoming impossible to think about anything else.
BEN
You know when I was starting out in the music business I had to sneak around to play music, there was some white clubs that allowed us to play there anyways, one night the police caught us, some of us managed to get away one of our friends wasn't so lucky.
Ben fumbling for a cigarette
The police beat him to death and left him laying on the side of the road like a piece of garbage. I remember lifting him up and his body was like a rag doll.
Hands shaking as he takes a drag of the cigarette.
What I'm trying to get at is we could of sat around for months mourning his death, cursing the people that did this, vowing for revenge but we didn't we kept playing in his memory.
You know why? Because that's the kind of person he was, always full of life.
Honour your wife's memory, that's all you can do, that's all she will ever ask for.
EXT. CAR. DAY
The streets are alive with people dancing.
Matthew pulls to the side of the road.
INT. CAR. DAY
MATTHEW
It was good meeting you Ben.
BEN
Likewise, you know you welcome to stay and party with me and the boys for a few days.
MATTHEW
Sounds tempting, I have to get going.
They shake hands.
EXT. CAR. DAY. MOVING
Driving on the open road the mountains soaring through the clouds. We see horses galloping sprightly through the plain. Matthew watches on in awe and slowly driftng off with the horses.
INT. CAR. DAY. MOVING
The melancholy mood adds to the music playing,
Matthew's strained, tired expression depicting that of a broken man.
EXT. CAR. NIGHT. MOVING
A vicious storm rattles the sky, the road has become terrible to drive on. A tree that's been knocked over by the storm blocks the flooded road. Matthew decides to pull into a Motel for the night.
INT. MOTEL ROOM. NIGHT
The room has a tacky look to it, cockroaches and spiders walk freely on the wall. There's a bed, television and nightlamp. Matthew opens a bottle of whiskey and makes himself comfortable on the bed. After a few drinks he passes out.
INT. CAR. NIGHT
We see two cars crashing into each other.
INT. MOTEL ROOM. NIGHT
Matthew wakes up in a panic, his bed damp from the sweat.
The windows rattling from the storm.
INT. BATHROOM. NIGHT
He gets out of the shower, drops to the floor and start's crying. Matthew pulls the gun out of his bag and raises it to his head.
MATTHEW
(shuts his eyes)
Please forgive me for my sins, I never thought my life would take this turn but you leave me no choice. Whether I'm awake or asleep I feel the deep spiritual darkness of my life. An overpowering sense of hate and anger has absorbed my body.
His sweating profusely, hands trembling and his breathing's beginning to labour as pulls the trigger back.
Matthew's interrupted by a knock at the door.
He pulls the gun away and breathes a sigh of relief.
MATTHEW
(open's it)
Can I help you?
JOE
(late 30's, tall, bulky, average)
Hi! I'm JOE sorry to bother you, I'm looking for some ice, I'm all out.
MATTHEW
Sorry man, try the reception, that's usualy where they keep it.
JOE
Why didn't I think of that, thanks man.
Matthew gets the gun and stares at it.
EXT. MOTEL. DAY
The sun's shining brightly, the motel looks even worse during the day. The last truck has just made it's way onto the road, we see Joe standing by Matthew's car, looking in.
MATTHEW
(Matthew squinting his eyes from the sun)
Can I help you with something.
JOE
Joe! From last night.
MATTHEW
What do you want?
Opening the car door.
JOE
I could use a lift, I believe you going my way.
Matthew analysing him.
MATTHEW
How do I know you not some psycho?
JOE
That's on my mother's side of the family.
Matthew grin's.
MATTHEW
Hop in. I'm Matthew.
EXT. CAR. DAY
Car pulls away.
INT. CAR. DAY
The car's a mess, empty junk food boxes laying all over the car.
MATTHEW
Sorry about the mess.
Clearing up some of the mess.
JOE
Look's like you've been on the road for a while.
MATTHEW
A few days now, it takes its toll.
JOE
You don't have to tell me.
Pulling a cigarette out.
You don't mind.
MATTHEW
(shaking his head 'no')
What do you do?
JOE
Nothing really, I travel from town to town, working a little here and there for food and a place to stay, then I carry on to my next destination. I've seen the world and its off its rocker.
Joe takes a flagon out of his bag and pours himself some wine. Offer's Matthew
MATTHEW
No thank's that's a different view of the world.
JOE
I mean terrorist attacks and insane wars are as normal as buying bread these days.
MATTHEW
So what did you do before.
JOE
Ever heard of Banks Enterprises.
MATTHEW
The toy company.
JOE
That's right, I gave 20 years of my life to that place and you know what I found out about myself, I wasn't a very nice person, people resented me.
I had to change my lifestyle or lord only knows what I would have turned into, I sold the company and gave the money to a charity.
I realised that our time on this planet was a surprisingly short one and I wasn't going to spend it sitting in a office waiting to drop dead from a heart attack.
MATTHEW
(Sarcastically)
Wow! I had no idea your life was so shit.
JOE
People think you have lots of money, so naturally your life has to be great. It doesn't always work that way.
MATTHEW
So how you enjoying life on the road.
JOE
You have your good and bad day's, I have no regrets, nothing's better than being at peace with yourself and the world around you, I haven't felt so exhilarated in years.
Sticking his head out the window.
(screaming)
I'm free.
MATTHEW
You crazy.
Laughing at Joe's antics.
JOE
If it means being happy with my life then yes, I'm crazy.
MATTHEW
I'll drink to that.
Joe pours him a drink.
JOE
What brings you out here?
MATTHEW
I'm on my way to spread my wife's ashes.
JOE
Bummer man. A pity you can't travel back to save her.
MATTHEW
This isn't some movie, we don't mysteriously get to change our fate.
Staring out the window gazing into the vast emptiness that is his life.
JOE
That's why I don't get too close to anyone, its safer that way.
MATTHEW
Yeah I'm mad, fucking pissed actually, but I wouldn't change one minute of my life.
JOE
Why would you want to go through that if you didn't have to?
MATTHEW
I loved her and to me that's stronger than anything else.
JOE
You a braver than I'll ever be, I salute you for that.
MATTHEW
(shows Joe a photo of Catherine)
This is when we first met.
JOE
She was a real babe man. I hope you find peace, I really mean that.
MATTHEW
I know.
JOE
You can drop me off here.
MATTHEW
Are you sure I don't mind dropping you in the next town its not far from here.
JOE
I think I'll take a stroll it looks like its going to be a beautiful night.
Gazing into the sky.
MATTHEW
Great meeting you.
JOE
Same here and hang in their, remember the world's a big place but that doesn't mean you'll be able to run from your memories.
Whistling as he walks down the road.
EXT. ROAD. NIGHT. MOVING
A full moon with the help of the stars lights up the sky.
EXT. QUICK STOP. NIGHT
He pulls in and parks at a petrol station.
A girl in her early-twenties wearing a skimpy outfit and layers of make-up makes her way to Matthew's car.
MARY
(the make-up's
covering up her bruises)
Hi their handsome, you look like you could use a service.
MATTHEW
No thanks, you welcome to join me for dinner.
MARY
Why not.
INT. DINER. NIGHT
The place is packed with truckers, judging eyes follow them as they take a seat in a corner booth.
MATTHEW
I'm Matthew what's your name?
MARY
MARY!
Lighting a cigarette.
MATTHEW
Aren't you a bit young to be roaming the streets, this place doesn't look very safe.
The waitress comes over with some coffee and doesn't look to impressed with Mary.
WAITRESS
What can I get you?
Looking at the menus.
MATTHEW
Two of your specials please.
MARY
(leaning forward over the table)
I've never had a man treat me with so much respect. If you don't want sex, what do you want.
MATTHEW
Let's just say I know all to well about drawing the short straw.
MARY
(smiling)
My very own knight in shining armour.
MATTHEW
If you dont mind me asking, why do you do what you do.
MARY
You don't beat around the bush, do you.
MATTHEW
I'm sorry its none of my business.
MARY
(she keeps quiet)
My parents died when I was ten, so my uncle and aunt took me in.
Deep breath.
My uncle molested me, when I told my aunt she told me not to make silly accusations it got to a point where killing myself seemed like the best option, I guess something in me still had the will to live.
I ran away from home and ended up on the streets, I met a guy who said he could help and before I knew it I was a prostitute.
MATTHEW
Why did you stay?
Adding some sauce to his chips.
MARY
It was my only option at the time and soon after that I started using drugs to block out the whole experience, it all went downhill after that.
MATTHEW
Weren't you worried about Aids.
MARY
(staring at him in annoyance)
In my business you do what you have to do to survive condom or no condom.
MATTHEW
My wife...
MARY
Your wife what.
MATTHEW
(stares down at the food blankly)
She worked at a clinic for the abused. You would have really liked her. She had a soft spot for abused women.
MARY
(she rambles on)
Are the two of you no longer together because I sense that you still love her and if so you should go...
MATTHEW
(bangs his fists hard on the table,
spilling the coffee)
She's dead! Are you fucking happy. I'm sorry!
The roving truckers eyes fixated on Matthew and Mary.
Matthew turns to the truckers.
What the fuck are you looking at?
MARY
Calm down. Its okay to be upset.
MATTHEW
I feel like ripping that mother fuckers head off for what he did. I hope I never come into contact with him. I won't be responsible for my actions.
Mary moves over to comfort him.
MARY
It takes time Matthew we only human after all.
Rubbing his back.
MATTHEW
I'd rather be with my wife and baby than deal with all
this shit.
Head in his hands.
MARY
I know this might sound selfish but hearing about your problems makes me think about my own life.
MATTHEW
What!
MARY
If I don't change my life no one's going to do it for me, I've always known that but this is the first time I've really thought about it, you made me realise that, maybe you should think about that.
EXT. QUICK STOP. NIGHT
Matthew and Mary standing by his car saying their goodbyes.
MARY
I hope you find what you looking for.
MATTHEW
Only time will tell, you sure you don't need a lift.
MARY
There's a bus arriving in the next hour, I think I'll use that time to figure out my next move. Thanks for being so good to me.
MATTHEW
You welcome.
Mary kisses him on the cheek.
EXT. ROAD. NIGHT. MOVING
The sky's dark abyss prevents the stars from shining through. Matthew's only guide is a light shining in the distance.
CAMP SITE
pulls in and parks. There's a bunch of people sitting around fires talking, others are singing. Loud laughter ruptures through the campsite, Matthew walks over to where some people are playing cards.
BILLY
(early 20'S, tall, lean,
good looking)
Are you going to be my shadow whole night or do you want to play some cards.
MATTHEW
(pulls up a chair)
Sure, I'm Matthew by the way.
BILLY
I'm BILLY that's HARRY, MIKE and WAYNE.
MATTHEW
Hi guys.
They all greet. All this under and overlapping the card game.
So what's the occasion.
BILLY
We're a theatre group that gets together once a year. I see your five rand and raise you ten rand.
MATTHEW
I see your ten rand and raise you five. What to party?
BILLY
Not just party, thespian's from across the country descend on this place, hoping they get a chance to travel with us when we leave. We have auditions on that stage over there, its sad to say they haven't found anyone as good as me.
MATTHEW
I call.
BILLY
Beat this, full house.
MATTHEW
I'm sorry my friend straight flush.
BILLY
Good game, I guess my winning streak's come to an end. I hope you not auditioning, I don't do competition well.
Has this conceited attitude about him.
MATTHEW
No! Just passing through.
BILLY
In that case how about a beer.
MATTHEW
Only if I'm buying.
BILLY
Cool by me.
EXT. CAMP SITE. NIGHT. FURTHER
The two guys focus drifts to the mountain as the moonlight captures it.
BILLY
How can you say AL PACINO'S better than MARLON BRANDO that's like saying water's better than beer.
MATTHEW
You must of seen the passion he projects in his movies, if I didn't know better I would think he really was that that guy.
Billy shrugging off Matthew's opinion.
BILLY
We'll agree to disagree, so what brings you out here.
MATTHEW
I'm on my way to my families cabin, I need to clear my head.
Dodging anymore question's about him.
So how long you acting?
BILLY
Going on four years now, it started in high school, then I did some community theatre before I found this place, wasn't my father pissed when I quit my studies to become an actor.
MATTHEW
I know how you feel, my father's exactly the same, his way or the highway, can you believe he didn't attend my wedding.
Gulping down a beer.
BILLY
I didn't know you were married. Why isn't she with you?
Billy lights a joint.
You don't mind hey.
MATTHEW
(Matthew realising he has to tell him)
My wife's dead, she was killed in a car accident a few weeks ago, I'm trying to figure out my next move. I'm not really in the mood to talk about it, its all I've been doing since I left home. I just want to have some fun tonight.
BILLY
Fun's my middle name. Well actually its THEODORE.
Matthew laughs.
Passes the joint to Matthew, they sit quietly smoking the joint while in deep view of the mountain.
EXT. CAMP SITE. DAY
There's a vibrant buzz as the thearte group gets ready to leave. Matthew walks over to BILLY'S tent.
MATTHEW
Morning everyone.
BILLY
Hey man, you ready to leave.
Packing his bags.
MATTHEW
Yeah, just coming to say good bye and say thanks for the great hospitality. You know this last few days has really opened up my eyes, to a few things I need to sought out in my life.
BILLY
Glad I could help. Come here man.
Two guy's hug.
I'll mention your name when I win my first OSCAR.
Matthew smiles.
EXT. CAR. DAY. MOVING
The car speeds down the road.
EXT. CATHOLIC SCHOOL. DAY
Pulls in and parks. The school's surrounded by large trees that's become a haven for the birds.
INT. CATHOLIC SCHOOL. DAY
The hallways are empty and there's a faint sound of the choir singing. He finds the office that reads reception and walks in.
INT. SCHOOL RECEPTION. DAY
He walks over to the RECEPTIONIST, early 30'S, chubby, glasses, flaming red hair, who's having an in-depth conversation about yesterday's soap opera, with someone on the phone. The past principle's picture's lined along the wall.
RECEPTIONIST
Hold on there's some guy here. Can I help you?
MATTHEW
I'm here to see FATHER TAYLOR.
RECEPTIONIST
Straight through there.
Matthew enters.
INT. FATHER TAYLOR'S OFFICE. DAY
Father Taylor, late 60'S, receeding hair line, thin, extends a warm smile as Matthew enters the room. Its hard not to miss the magnitude of books in the office.
FATHER TAYLOR
Matthew my boy, its good to see you again, pity about the circumstances.
MATTHEW
Good to see you too father. I see you still love your books.
They embrace.
FATHER TAYLOR
Something tells me you haven't come all this way to talk about my selection of books.
Father ushering him to have a seat.
MATTHEW
Did you hold it against me when I left the church.
FATHER TAYLOR
(shuffling in his chair)
I was disappointed you didn't come talk to me before you made your decision, but no I didn't hold it against you, why would I, love transcends any boundary.
MATTHEW
So why am I being punished. I didn't deserve this no-one does.
Gets out of his seat and walks over to the window.
FATHER TAYLOR
You not being punished Matthew, sometimes our faith gets tested.
MATTHEW
Well all my faith can hold at the moment is doubt and confusion.
Matthew examining a portrait of Jesus.
FATHER TAYLOR
We all lose clarity some or the other time in our lives.
MATTHEW
Like our almighty God did when he snatched my family from me. I need answers. My world's starting to crumble around me and I'm struggling to find a way out.
Matthew rubbing his hands over his face.
FATHER TAYLOR
Then you've come to the wrong place, I can try and guide you to the light in the end only you can choose your path.
MATTHEW
Let's hope I find it soon.
EXT. CAR. DAY. MOVING
Pulls into the driveway and parks. Takes a few minutes to gather his thoughts.
MATTHEW (V.O.)
Why do you allow us to live in a time where forgiveness is a thing of the past. Where we've become accustomed to seeing horrible things. We often let our rage run our lives stomping on any chance of reconciliation thus making the world a smaller place.
We see his father with a stern look on his face peak through the window.
Susan carrying a huge smile rushes out to greet Matthew.
SUSAN
Hi honey.
She hugs and kisses him.
I missed you so much.
MATTHEW
I missed you too mom.
SUSAN
I made your favourite.
Has a concerned look on her face.
MATTHEW
You didn't have to go through all the trouble Mom.
SUSAN
No trouble for my baby. Lets go inside.
They walk inside.
INT. HOUSE. DAY
The interior's decorated as a nineteenth century English house. Chandeliers are hanging in the lounge and a long wooden table takes up most of the space in the dining room. Their are portraits of the famiy leading up the stairs.
MATTHEW
It smells great in here Mom.
SUSAN
I'm baking some goodies for the church fete.
MATTHEW
Is Alex around.
SUSAN
I sent him out to buy some ingredients.
MATTHEW
And Dad.
SUSAN
Upstairs. Dont worry about your father he'll come around.
Matthew walks over to the portraits.
Do you remember when we took this, you looked so cute in that outfit.
Father walks in.
MATTHEW
Dad!
PHILLIP
Matthew! I'll be in the garage if you need me.
MATTHEW
Why does he always have to be an asshole?
SUSAN
Mind your tongue, his still your father.
Matthew fiddling with some old photos on the table.
MATTHEW
Sorry, my wife's dead and all he can think about is me not finishing my studies.
SUSAN
He just want's the best for you.
MATTHEW
If that were true he wouldn't be acting this way.
SUSAN
You know your father loves you.
MATTHEW
So much, that he didn't attend my wife's funeral.
Getting up and looking at a photo of him and his father holding a fish.
SUSAN
I was waiting for the right time to tell you. How did you find out?
MATTHEW
Alex blurted it out.
Alex comes home.
ALEX
I can't believe you still driving that old jalopy, you need to role with the times.
MATTHEW
You one to talk, you do know the seventies are over.
Alex sporting long hair and a beard, his wearing torn jeans and a ripped sweater.
SUSAN
Its his new look, I can't for the life of me figure out what the children are up to nowadays.
Matthew smiles.
MATTHEW
Its good to see you.
ALEX
You too.
They hug.
ALEX
Give me a 15 minutes, then we'll paint the town what ever colour you like.
MATTHEW
Take your time; I need to chat to dad first.
ALEX
Good luck. Here's your things Mom.
Gives his mom a kiss.
INT. GARAGE. NIGHT
All this UNDER and OVERLAPPED by Phillip restoring an old FORD MUSTANG. Matthew enters the garage.
MATTHEW
Hey dad.
PHILLIP
MATTHEW!
MATTHEW
I see you still trying to fix that old thing.
PHILLIP
What do you want Matthew? I'm really busy.
MATTHEW
Forget it.
Starts walking out of the garage.
PHILLIP
Wait a minute Matthew. What do you want?
MATTHEW
I was hoping you'd go with me to spread Catherine's ashes.
PHILLIP
Your mother can't go.
MATTHEW
I asked you.
PHILLIP
I don't know, I have a lot to do tomorrow.
Goes back to fixing the car.
MATTHEW
I'll let you get back to your precious car.
Phillip has a remorseful look on his face.
EXT. HOUSE. NIGHT
Alex smoking a cigarete waiting for Matthew.
ALEX
You okay.
MATTHEW
I'll be fine it's just dad still not budging.
Alex puts his arm around Matthew.
ALEX
I don't know why you keep trying. He should be the one apologizing for blowing everything out of proportion. His just a sad, angry old man. His never going to change.
We see Phillip standing by the garage door listening to their conversation. Distraught at what he just heard.
MATTHEW
I guess you right. Now I'm ready to get shit faced.
ALEX
That's more like it.
INT. BAR. NIGHT
The place is brimming with twenty-somethings.
Television's are placed in the corners of the bar showing sports and music. A few pooltables and dart boards are situated at the back of the bar.
Making their way through the noisy crowd.
ALEX
Hey SAL, late 50'S, plain, overweight, you remember Matthew.
SAL
Of course, how you doing Matthew?
Shake hands.
I heard about your wife, I'm really sorry.
MATTHEW
Thanks Sal.
ALEX
A bottle of your finest whiskey.
MATTHEW
(talking in Alex's ear)
Is it always this busy.
ALEX
Most of the time, lets find a seat.
INT. PARENT'S BEDROOM. NIGHT
Susan's reading a book and Phillip's fidgeting around as he reads the newspaper.
SUSAN
What's bothering you honey.
PHILLIP
(puts the paper down)
Matthew asked me to go with him tomorrow.
SUSAN
What did you say?
Turning towards Phillip.
PHILLIP
I said I'm busy.
Susan sighs.
SUSAN
Honey! Why do you keep doing this?
You going! Your son's hurting and he needs you.
PHILLIP
But...
SUSAN
No but's, how long are you going to continue this stupid rift.
Gives him a kiss.
Don't forget to pack your toothbrush.
EXT. BAR. NIGHT
We see a guy JEFF, early 30'S, tall, scar right down his head, with a limp walking up and down smoking cigarette after cigarette.
INT. BAR. NIGHT
Alex and Matthew's playing darts, they look worse for wear after finishing the bottle.
MATTHEW
(rocking back and forth)
Don't fall in love that's the only advice I'm ever going to give you.
ALEX
Why is that my drunk brother?
Handing him another shot.
MATTHEW
Because God doesn't care about our well-being, all we are to him is puppets when his tired of us he cuts the string. He will rip your soul out and leave you with the memories.
ALEX
All I can say is hang in their, thing's will get better I can feel it.
MATTHEW
(tears running down his face)
I keep on hearing that but its not that simple, I need some fresh air.
ALEX
You okay.
MATTHEW
(wry smile)
I never felt better.
Stumbling over a chair.
ALEX
I'll come with you.
Helping him up.
MATTHEW
(shoves him away)
You stay I don't want to bore you with my sad story.
EXT. BAR. NIGHT
Matthew vomits.
JEFF
Excuse me!
Jeff taps him on his shoulder.
MATTHEW
What do you want?
JEFF
I must of gone over what I wanted to say a thousand times and it still doesn't feel right.
MATTHEW
What are you on about buddy?
JEFF
Your mother said I could find you here, I have been looking for you for the last few day's.
I'm Jeff Yates.
Matthew stands up straight, he has this crazy look on his face.
MATTHEW
You have some nerve coming here. Do you realise all the pain you caused.
Matthew re-enters the bar and Jeff stops him.
JEFF
Give me a minute to explain, I keep playing the incident over and over in my head, wishing their was someway I could change it.
Jeff crying.
MATTHEW
If you've come for forgiveness, you have sorely underestimated how much hate one man can have for another.
JEFF
That's the last thing I want.
MATTHEW
Then why are you here.
JEFF
My life was a complete mess at the time, I had just lost my job and my wife decided to leave me. The walls were closing in fast and my only way out was to drink.
MATTHEW
We all have problems, we learn to deal with them, what you did is unforgiveble.
JEFF
I wasn't thinking.
MATTHEW
You weren't thinking, that's the best you can come up with, my families gone, you can still see your's.
INT. BAR. NIGHT
Alex see's Matthew arguing with someone outside.
EXT. BAR. NIGHT
Matthew grabs Jeff and slams him against the wall.
MATTHEW
You weren't thinking about anyone but yourself, you and only you got behind the fucking wheel.
(behaving like a rabid dog)
That was your choice, you ran away from your responsibility bastard. Our lives could have been very different if you stayed and phoned the ambulance. You're a coward and I hope your day of reckoning comes sooner than later.
Angry tears falling from Matthew's face.
Alex rushes out and pull's Matthew off Jeff.
I hope you rot in hell. You son of a bitch.
Matthew punches the wall.
ALEX
What's going on, who's this guy?
MATTHEW
Meet the mastermind behind my hell, Jeff Yates.
Matthew goes back into the bar.
ALEX
(hate fills Alex eye's)
What were you hoping to get out of this?
Follows Matthew in.
EXT. PARENTS HOUSE. DAY
Matthew packing some thing's in the car and saying his goodbyes to Susan and Alex.
SUSAN
I love you son. Call me if you need anything.
MATTHEW
Love you to mom.
Hugging each other.
ALEX
Good seeing you bro.
Hugs brother.
Let's not wait ten years to see each other again.
Phillip comes out with his suitcase and has a tentative look on his face. Matthew smiles.
MATTHEW
So you decided to come after all.
PHILLIP
Don't make a big fuss.
They get in the car and drive off.
EXT. ROAD. DAY. MOVING
They pass a forrest of lofty trees, run through by shafts of light.
INT. ROAD. DAY. MOVING
The uneasiness and tension between the two men can be cut with a knife. Matthew keeps looking at Phillip.
PHILLIP
What Matthew?
Placing his book and glasses on his lap.
MATTHEW
Nothing.
PHILLIP
It must be something, you keep looking at me.
MATTHEW
I'm glad you decided to come.
Pats Phillip on the shoulder.
PHILLIP
It was your mother's idea.
MATTHEW
Why you being this way, you shouldn't of came if you didn't want to.
(hands tightning on the steering wheel
and the veins popping out of his neck)
I should be mourning my wife's death but for some our issues have taken precedence over more important things. I sholdn't be that way dad I shouldn't have to worry about things like this.
PHILLIP
What do you want from me.
MATTHEW
How about being my father and not my enemy.
PHILLIP
I'll try my best.
EXT. CABIN. NIGHT
They pull in and park. The cabin's a rusty looking wooden house with a porch and its at its most beautiful at night. The night sky packed with clusters of stars and the moonlight's shine on the lake.
INT. CABIN. NIGHT
Matthew walks around the cabin taking in the memories and looks at pictures of him and the family.
MATTHEW
Catherine loved this place.
PHILLIP
What was she like?
Phillip walking over to Matthew and looking at a picture of Susan.
MATTHEW
She was the most loving woman I've ever met. She cherished each day as if it were her last and her smile warmed up a room. She loved... loved children she wanted to have dozens.
PHILLIP
Reminds me of your mother.
MATTHEW
Did you know she was pregnant.
PHILLIP
(sadness in his eyes)
Yes your mom told me.
Settles down on the bed.
It was a long drive get some rest, tomorrow we'll do some fishing. You do still like fishing.
MATTHEW
Of course.
Hugs Phillip who's taken by surprise.
Matthew and Phillip are fast asleep we only hear the cricket's chirping.
MATTHEW
No! Help her. Please save them.
Matthew tossing and turning.
PHILLIP
Matthew! Matthew!
Shakes him awake.
MATTHEW
(tears in his eyes and drenched in sweat)
PHILLIP
Are you all right you were having a nightmare.
Having a seat next to him on the bed.
You want to talk about it.
MATTHEW
I keep dreaming about the accident,her lifeless body calling out to me. Just as our fingers touch, she disappears and I see the Doctor covering her body. I see our unborn child crying next to her and asking me why I didn't save them.
PHILLIP
You not blame, you do know that.
Brushing his hair back.
MATTHEW
I know that it still doesn't change the fact that I was helpless when they needed me the most.
Phillip sits with Matthew till he falls asleep.
EXT. CABIN. DAY
We see Matthew and Phillip fishing by the peer.
MATTHEW
Hey dad you really suck at this.
Matthew has a bucket filled with fish by his side.
PHILLIP
What do you mean, I taught you everything you know.
First time in a while that Matthew's enjoying himself.
MATTHEW
I got another one.
Reeling in a huge fish.
PHILLIP
Pure luck.
EXT. CABIN. NIGHT
Matthew and Phillip sitting around the fire eating the fish.
PHILLIP
This is nice.
MATTHEW
I added some jam and lemon.
PHILLIP
I mean the two of us hanging out I have to be honest I never thought it would turn out this way. I had a totally different picture painted in my head.
MATTHEW
Me neither, you know dad she was the greatest thing that ever happened to me and you didn't get to see that, you would of loved her.
PHILLIP
I'm beginning to realise that.
MATTHEW
You weren't at my wedding, I can handle that but not coming to my wife's funeral, how could you do that. You must of really hated me.
PHILLIP
Never! Don't even think that my ego got the better of me and I regret that.
Tears stream down Phillip's face.
MATTHEW
I never understood why you were so angry, we always had a good relationship.
PHILLIP
I was never angry with you I just couldn't come to terms with the decisions you were making. You had your whole life ahead of you and I was afraid you were making a huge mistake.
Phillip gets up and stares at the stars.
MATTHEW
I get that you were upset when I left the priesthood you must remember it was my choice to become a priest so it was my choice to leave.
I never stopped loving God and I know this might sound horrible but he wasn't my first love anymore Catherine was.
I guess he didn't approve of that.
Matthew gets up and goes to stand next to him.
PHILLIP
I'm sorry I wasn't there for you I can't believe you had to deal with all this on your own. I only wanted the best for you.
I don't know if this will help but I did attend your wedding and Catherine's funeral.
Catherine phoned me and asked me to attend she was so friendly over the phone it was impossible to say no, you didn't see me because I kept my distance.
I never stopped loving you Matthew. You have to know that.
Phillip put's his arm around Matthew.
I'm here now.
Matthew start's crying.
MATTHEW
I miss her so much dad. I keep waiting for some emotion to kick in, something that will help me make sense of everything that's happenned.
PHILLIP
We'll get through this together.
They sit in silence.
Listening to the sounds of nature.
MATTHEW
I'm going for a walk.
PHILLIP
I'm here if you need me.
Matthew smiles and walks down to the peer.
EXT. CABIN PEER. NIGHT
MATTHEW
(skipping stones on the water)
Here I am lets sought out our differences once and for all.
Gazing into the sky.
I guess I owe you an apology, I've been generating all my anger towards you for taking my family, I suppose that was my way of dealing with their deaths. If me and my father can start to work things out I suppose I can give you another cance. My heart was black the pain was endless. I believed I was an idiot for not doing more to save my family. I was full of sound and fury and luckily I realised it signifyed nothing.
Takes off his shoes and dips his feet in the water.
Its been a long struggle but meeting all those people on the road helped me with my grieving in a weird kind of way. I have this strong suspicion meeting them wasn't by accident.
You have always been a pillar of strength for me in my darkest hour, I should of trusted that you would guide me through the tunnel.
I hope you taking care of them up there, you must of really needed them more than I did. Thanks for bringing my dad and me closer together I guess it wouldn't of happened otherwise, I'm to wonder if that was your plan all along.
We see a shooting star. Matthew looks up.
At least I know you listening.
Gets up and walks back to the cabin.
PHILLIP
You okay son.
MATTHEW
Yeah I'm going to be okay.
He smiles.
INT. CABIN. NIGHT
Matthew looks peaceful while he sleeps.
DREAM Begins
We see Catherine holding a baby and walking towards a bright light. She turns and smiles at Matthew assuring him that things will take a turn for the better.
DREAM ENDS
We see Matthew smiling in his sleep.
EXT. CABIN JUST BEFORE. SUNSET
Matthew and Phillip standing under the tree that he proposed to Cattherine by. The sky turning into vibrant shades of red and orange.
MATTHEW
(holding the urn)
This is where I proposed, I figure this will be the perfect place to spread her ashes. Could you give me a few minutes dad.
PHILLIP
Sure son.
MATTHEW
I wish I told you I loved you more, I didn't expect we would part ways so soon, I guess we only realise how precious life is when we lose someone close to us. I might not understand the reason for all of this but I have faith that losing you will direct me in a meaningful new path. I miss you so much and the only comfort is knowing you always with me. I made up with my dad and I have a strong suspicion that you had something to do with that, I will love you always and always cherish your memory.
Matthew starts crying.
Phillip comes over to comfort him.
They spread Catherine's ashes together as the sunsets.
FADE OUT
THE END.
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